IRGC says four tankers struck mines in Strait of Hormuz

▲ Escalating

Iran says four tankers hit mines in Hormuz as US reportedly weighs renewed strikes

Early on Friday, Iran's IRGC said four tankers struck naval mines after using "unauthorised" routes through the Strait of Hormuz. On Thursday, The Atlantic reported that the US removed Army Lt. Gen. Brett Sylvia as head of strategy, plans and policy on the Joint Chiefs, as Trump appears to be preparing to resume large-scale strikes. Diplomacy continues in parallel: Vice President Vance proposed restarting comprehensive talks in a letter to an Iranian official, while Trump denies that peace talks are under way.

• A British maritime agency reported a ship on fire in the Strait of Hormuz off Oman on Thursday, and Iran says it shot down another US drone.
• Vance's letter suggests an immediate resumption of comprehensive talks, including on Iran's nuclear program.
• Foreign minister Araghchi says Iran is in close contact with mediators on its seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
• The Pentagon says the war has cost US taxpayers $47bn, with US midterms five days away.